Westport has partnered with the Western Australian Marine Science Institution (WAMSI) to deliver the $13.5 million WAMSI-Westport Marine Science Program. This 3-year program is developing the latest data, information and modelling on the complex environmental systems and community values associated with Cockburn Sound.
Project 8.4: Distribution of Syngnathid fishes in Cockburn Sound and Owen Anchorage
Research theme: Apex Predators and Iconic Species
Researchers: G Moore, J Ritchie, G Nester, A Kendrick
Publication date: September 2024
Understanding syngnathids in Cockburn Sound
Seahorses, pipefishes and sea dragons are all part of the Syngnathid family of fishes, and are common in Cockburn Sound’s shallow and temperate waters.
Much loved by divers and photographers, they are an iconic species in Cockburn Sound and are listed under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1996.
This research project looked to understand the distribution of Syngnathid communities in Cockburn Sound in the context of potential impacts of the port development, particularly in relation to habitat loss and water quality impacts from dredging activities.
It has provided the first comprehensive summary on what is known about Syngnathids, in Cockburn Sound and Owen Anchorage, including species distributions and preferred habitat.
What the report found
- 21 species were identified in Cockburn Sound, including 2 species of seahorse, 16 of pipefish, 1 species of pipehorse and 2 species of seadragon.
- This represents high diversity for a relatively small embayment.
- Seagrass and reef areas were the location for most of the population, which also act as breeding grounds.
- The development of the port may have negative impacts on Syngnathid communities residing in the Sound.
How Westport will use the report
Syngnathids are a listed species and important to the health of Cockburn Sound. This knowledge has provided Westport with the opportunity to begin investigating options prior to development process to support Syngnathid communities, and mitigate long-term impacts.
Read the full report here.
